From the Editor of Sri Lanka Watch. The new set of regulations to Universities is a step that was long due. Better later than never. It’s a step in the right direction.

University students in future will be asked to sign a document assuring
that they will not engage in any sort of ragging activities till they
complete their study programs. It will make them very clear for what
are joining the Universities.

Only after this procedure the students would be absorbed into
universities. If any student is found to commit ragging during his or
her period of estate, severe action would be taken against him or her.
They would also not be able to continue their studies.

The stricture to be jointly enforced by UGC and Ministry of Higher
Education has received commendable welcome from various sections. Stern
disciplinary action will be taken against undergrads who were found
engaging in ragging after placing their signature as per the new
regulation, said Prof. Gamini Samaranayaka, head, UGC. Our student
community is influenced by various external elements including
craziness over western world culture and cultural decay.

This measure would bring an environment for a disciplined student population who are the future pillars of this country.

There is no doubt the new plan to prevent ragging in universities would
give peace to those who are anticipating university entrance. The
threat of ragging is in many students who have got university entrance.
They are threatened to face teasing of senior students. Especially
students who got through their Advanced Levels with Good Z score are
not applying for universities due to ragging. It is a very unfortunate.

Though the Government and the managements of the universities have
taken steps to prevent ragging which would affect new students
physically and mentally, are unable to put a full stop for such
incidents.

Managements are unable to take action without eyewitnesses or
complaints against those who rag new students as new students never
come forward to make a complaint against senior students.

Many students have even lost their lives due to the ragging.

It is in the interest of the public and gives hope for everyone. It
must be implemented not only to Universities but to all educational
Institutions – including schools.

Sri Lanka should have Zero tolerance for Ragging in educational institutions.